Cobalt Friction Technologies has just started producing a new track pad for the D721
'02 Impreza WRX/ '97-'01 2.5RS front caliper fitment. I've arranged a pre-release discount deal for those who want to buy them before they are available for standard purchase. These can be purchased directly from Cobalt at (877)562-9237.

The Spec-VR pad has already been used successfully in Speed World Challenge, Grand Am Cup, Formula Mazda, Fran Am and a lot of other series. I just found out about these a couple weeks ago and thought I would pass along the word. A bunch of my friends are running these on track-driven Integra Type R's and GS-R's and have been extremely happy with their performance. These high fade-critical temperature should be particularly useful on our cars, since it's fairly difficult to add effective brake ducts with our suspension/chassis configuration. I've been running the GT-Sport compound autocross pad for ~8 months now and have been very happy with their performance. I'll be using the Spec(VR) on my car for track events as soon as they are available.


These pads are currently in production and will be released within the next 3 weeks. They
retail for $179, but can be bought pre-release for $149/set.

SPECIFICATIONS FOR GT-R.spec(VR)
• Coefficient of Friction: 0.64mu
• Optimal Temperature Range: 350F-1550F
• Fade-Critical: 1550-1600F
KEY FEATURES
• Extremely strong initial bite (VR)
• Excellent modulation and release
• Virtually flat torque curve over optimal temp. range
• Integral-molded construction
BENEFITS
• Consistent, predictable braking performance
• Unparalleled fade resistance & recovery times
• Excellent wear rates (rotor/disc & pad material)


Cobalt's Pad Comparison Chart (Large)
This chart compares many of the more popular pads currently available. As you can see, the
Spec(VR) compares quite favorably.

 

The chart posted was based on brake dynamometer testing by Cobalt Brakes, of the various compounds using a D503 Integra Type R caliper. It is intended to give a general comparison of currently available pad compounds, and should not be used as the sole source of information for pad selection. Many of the pads listed (Porterfield R4, Carbotech XP and P+, Ferodo DS3000, Hawk Black, Hawk Blue 9012 and all Cobalt compounds other than the GT-Sport) are intended for track usage. In order to protect proprietary information, specific numbers can't be posted on the chart. Such information may be furnished upon request from the individual manufacturers, if they feel inclined to disclose such info.

Cobalt Spec(VR) update:

Just got more info today… the Spec(VR) pads are now available for purchase direct from Cobalt. They are manufactured using a positive cavity molding system with Nucap Retention System backing plates to increase bond strength between the friction material and backing plate. The backing plates are also zinc plated to reduce corrosion. Roger Foo ran the Spec(VR) on his Speed World Challenge Mazda Protégé this past weekend at Road America, and was very pleased with their performance. The Spec(VR) will be available for an introductory price of $139 during the month of September, and $179 thereafter.